I had a 7600gt then a month or so ago I bought a 7900gs and I can say it is better than the 7600gt by maybe an average of 30% to 40%. I got the asus model and I'm getting pretty good oc from it. 450/632 to 575/800 with zalman vf-700cu.
If you get a 7900gs make sure you have a decent psu, at least 20a on the 12v rail.